If you are craving a warm, hearty dinner that feels like a big, cozy hug, this Beef Potato Cheese Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s an irresistible layering of tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and gooey cheddar cheese that melts beautifully to create a comforting dish with bold flavors and a luscious texture. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this casserole combines simple, wholesome ingredients into a dish you’ll find yourself returning to time and time again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is easier than you think, and each one plays a starring role in building the rich layers of flavor and texture in this Beef Potato Cheese Casserole Recipe. From creamy dairy to perfectly seasoned beef and delicate potatoes, everything comes together effortlessly.
- 1 lb ground beef: The hearty, savory base that brings richness and protein to the dish.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps soften the onion and adds a mild fruity flavor.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth when cooked down.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Boosts aroma and adds a subtle spicy note.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural flavors in every layer.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of warmth without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Offers a smoky sweetness that complements the beef perfectly.
- 3 cups thinly sliced potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet): Thin slices ensure even cooking and creaminess.
- 1 cup sour cream: Brings tanginess and creaminess to bind the layers.
- 1/2 cup milk: Lightens the sour cream for a silky texture.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided: Melts perfectly for that gooey, cheesy goodness.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty crust on top.
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional): A fresh sprinkle to brighten up the finishing touch.
How to Make Beef Potato Cheese Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This simple step ensures your casserole won’t stick and will bake evenly, setting the stage for layers of deliciousness to come together effortlessly.
Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in diced onions and cook until soft and fragrant, around 3 minutes. Add minced garlic and immediately follow with the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir frequently until the beef is browned and no longer pink. Once cooked through, drain any excess grease to keep the layers balanced and not greasy.
Step 3: Mix the Creamy Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream and milk until smooth. This mixture acts as a luscious binder for the casserole, adding tang and moisture while keeping everything creamy without being heavy.
Step 4: Layer the Casserole
This is where the magic happens! Begin by layering half of the thinly sliced potatoes across the bottom of your baking dish. Next, spread half of the cooked beef mixture evenly over the potatoes, followed by half of the sour cream mixture poured gently on top. Sprinkle one cup of shredded cheddar cheese to start building that irresistible cheesy layer. Repeat this exact sequence with the remaining ingredients: potatoes, beef, sour cream mixture, and finally top with the last cup of cheddar cheese along with the Parmesan. Cover the dish tightly with foil to trap moisture for tender potatoes.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake covered for 45 minutes to allow the potatoes to soften and flavors to meld. Then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly, golden, and the potatoes are fork-tender. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving—it really helps all those layers to settle and enhances flavor.
How to Serve Beef Potato Cheese Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
For a pop of fresh color and a mild herbal brightness, sprinkle chopped parsley over the top just before serving. It not only adds a lovely visual contrast but also lifts the rich flavors, making each bite lively and fresh.
Side Dishes
This casserole holds its own but pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness. Roasted broccoli or a simple cucumber and tomato salad makes for a refreshing foil to the creamy, cheesy layers.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual portions in small ramekins for a cozy, personalized touch at dinner parties. You can also garnish with crispy fried onions or a drizzle of hot sauce for a flavor twist. For a festive look, sprinkle some smoked paprika on top right before serving to accentuate the smoky notes in the beef.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Beef Potato Cheese Casserole Recipe keeps wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making for an even tastier meal the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze the casserole either before or after baking. If freezing unbaked, cover it tightly with foil and plastic wrap for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and follow the baking instructions, adding a little extra time if needed. For frozen leftovers, thaw overnight and reheat thoroughly before serving.
Reheating
The best way to reheat is in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil for about 20 minutes, until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as reheating slowly helps maintain that creamy texture and prevents the cheese from becoming rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in this casserole?
Absolutely! While cheddar and Parmesan provide classic flavors and great melting qualities, feel free to experiment with mozzarella for more stretch or Gouda for a smoky sweetness. Just keep the total cheese amount similar to maintain the balance.
Is it necessary to slice the potatoes thinly?
Yes, thin slices are key for this recipe. They ensure even cooking and a creamy texture throughout. Using a mandoline slicer can help achieve uniform slices quickly and safely.
Can I substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef?
Definitely! Ground turkey or chicken work well for a lighter version of this casserole. Since they are leaner, you might want to add a bit of olive oil when cooking to keep the mixture moist and flavorful.
How spicy is the dish?
This Beef Potato Cheese Casserole Recipe is very mild with only a hint of warmth from black pepper and paprika. If you like a little heat, you can add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the beef while cooking for an extra kick.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance and bake later?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole completely, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a little extra baking time if it’s chilled straight from the fridge to ensure the potatoes are tender.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting about a dish that blends tender potatoes, savory beef, and melty cheese into one delightful meal. This Beef Potato Cheese Casserole Recipe is simple, approachable, and packed with flavor, making it one of my favorite go-to dinners for any occasion. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this warm, cheesy, satisfying casserole just as much as I do!
Print
Beef Potato Cheese Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Beef Potato Cheese Casserole is a hearty and comforting American classic featuring layers of seasoned ground beef, thinly sliced potatoes, and a creamy cheese sauce baked to golden perfection. Perfect as a satisfying main course for family dinners, it combines rich flavors with a cheesy, tender texture that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Beef Mixture
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Potato and Cheese Layers
- 3 cups thinly sliced potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the oven and baking dish: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Cook the aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Brown the beef: Add minced garlic and ground beef to the skillet. Break the meat apart with a spatula as it cooks. Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Cook until the beef is fully browned and no longer pink, about 7–10 minutes. Drain off any excess grease.
- Mix sour cream and milk: In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream and milk until smooth to create the creamy sauce.
- Assemble the casserole – first layer: Layer half of the thinly sliced potatoes evenly in the prepared baking dish. Spread half of the cooked beef mixture over the potatoes. Pour half of the sour cream mixture over the beef layer, spreading gently. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over this layer.
- Assemble the casserole – second layer: Repeat the layering with the remaining potatoes, beef, and sour cream mixture. Top the final layer with the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese evenly.
- Bake covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. This helps cook the potatoes evenly and meld the flavors.
- Bake uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for another 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork and the cheese topping is golden and bubbly.
- Rest and garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes to set. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, mix in cooked bacon or sautéed mushrooms with the beef mixture.
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter variation.
- Thinly slicing the potatoes ensures even cooking; using a mandoline slicer is recommended.
- Let the casserole rest before serving for easier slicing and serving.
